Webcams give parents a new view of NICU babies

“There is never a time when somebody isn’t watching, and usually it’s several people at the same time. The nurses have shown an unbelievable amount of enthusiasm for this. They’re writing little notes that say things like ‘good morning, I had a great night,’” Myers said.

With 35 years in the business, Myers said she has always felt for families who find themselves in intensive care. She said she hoped the camera system would make that first trip away from the bedside easier for parents.

“What better way to help them ease their anxiety than having them be able to see their baby when they’re not here,” Myers said.

Tri-City’s location in Oceanside makes it only a matter of time before a military family has a baby in the unit, meaning that it would be possible for a deployed father to see his newborn son or daughter from half a world away, a fact that makes Myers beam.

The veteran said she’s still amazed that the technology is finally a reality.

“I can’t even begin to ponder where we go from here,” she said.

Note: This story has been modified to reflect new information provided by Tri-City on Wednesday about the project's main donor.